Welcome to this exciting recipe for Spicy Fish and Olive Spaghetti, a Mediterranean-inspired dish with bold, savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. This recipe takes its cues from the Food Network version, bringing together spicy fish, kalamata olives, and whole-grain spaghetti to create a dish that’s both vibrant and satisfying. If you’re looking to enjoy a delicious seafood meal that’s quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor, you’re in the right place.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore everything from the origins of this Mediterranean dish to the ingredients, step-by-step preparation, and even variations to suit different tastes. Plus, we’ve included helpful tips to elevate your cooking experience. Let’s dive into this delicious journey!
What is Spicy Fish and Olive Spaghetti?
Spicy Fish and Olive Spaghetti is a Mediterranean-style pasta dish that combines the rich, flaky texture of tilapia fish with the savory, briny flavor of kalamata olives. The base of the dish features a tomato sauce spiced up with garlic, crushed red pepper, and oregano, making each bite a burst of bold, satisfying flavors. The whole-grain spaghetti adds a nutritious twist, making this dish not only delicious but also a healthy option for your next dinner.
This recipe is a great example of Mediterranean cuisine at its best. It is simple, fresh, and uses a combination of wholesome ingredients to deliver great taste without compromising on health. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty seafood meal, with the added bonus of being easy to prepare and full of nutrients.
Origin of Spicy Fish and Olive Spaghetti
The origin of Spicy Fish and Olive Spaghetti can be traced back to the Mediterranean coast, where seafood is a staple in the daily diet. Mediterranean cuisine is known for its use of fresh fish, healthy oils, and vibrant herbs and spices, which are combined in various ways to create flavorful dishes that are both satisfying and nutritious. This particular recipe takes inspiration from Mediterranean fish pasta dishes that incorporate tomatoes, olives, and aromatic seasonings.
Olives, especially kalamata olives, are commonly used in Mediterranean cooking and add a distinct salty, tangy flavor to dishes. The use of spicy elements like crushed red pepper brings a bit of heat, which is balanced perfectly by the mild tilapia fish and the richness of the tomato sauce.
Ingredients for Spicy Fish and Olive Spaghetti (Serves 4)
For this Mediterranean-style seafood pasta, you will need the following ingredients. This list includes everything necessary to bring the bold flavors of this dish to life:
- 10 oz whole-grain spaghetti – Whole grain adds fiber and a heartier texture than regular pasta, making this dish a more nutritious option.
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for tossing – Olive oil adds healthy fats and a rich flavor to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced – Garlic infuses the oil with a fragrant base for the sauce.
- ¾ tsp kosher salt, plus more for pasta water – Kosher salt is perfect for seasoning the dish and water for cooking the pasta.
- Pinch of crushed red pepper – This gives the dish a nice spicy kick. Adjust to taste.
- 1 (28 oz) can no-salt-added whole plum tomatoes, crushed by hand – Fresh tomatoes or canned whole tomatoes are perfect for creating a rich, flavorful sauce.
- ½ tsp dried oregano – Oregano adds a fragrant, herbal touch that’s characteristic of Mediterranean cuisine.
- 1 large tilapia fillet (about 8 oz), cut into ¾-inch pieces – Tilapia is a mild fish that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- 10 kalamata olives, quartered – Kalamata olives bring a briny, tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with the other ingredients.
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley – Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness to the final dish.
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Spicy Fish and Olive Spaghetti that is both satisfying and full of vibrant flavors.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Use about 1 tablespoon of salt per 4 cups of water.
- Add the whole-grain spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions (typically around 8-10 minutes for al dente).
- Once cooked, drain the pasta, but reserve 1 cup of pasta water to use later for the sauce. Toss the pasta with a little extra-virgin olive oil to prevent it from sticking and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced garlic to the hot oil. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Stir in the kosher salt and crushed red pepper for an added kick.
- Add the crushed tomatoes along with the reserved pasta water and dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a high simmer, allowing it to cook for about 12-15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly but remains loose and flavorful.
Step 3: Add Fish and Olives
- Stir in the tilapia fillet pieces and kalamata olives into the sauce. Cook for another 3–4 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste by adding more salt or crushed red pepper if needed.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked spaghetti and chopped parsley into the skillet with the sauce, fish, and olives.
- Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Serve the pasta hot in bowls, garnishing with extra fresh parsley for color and flavor.
Variations of Spicy Fish and Olive Spaghetti
While this recipe is already full of bold, vibrant flavors, there are several ways you can make this dish your own! Here are some variations to try:
1. Add Anchovies for Umami
For a deeper umami flavor, consider adding anchovies. Simply stir in 2-3 anchovy fillets with the garlic, letting them dissolve into the sauce for added richness.
2. Use Calabrian Chili Paste for Extra Heat
If you love a more intense spicy kick, swap the crushed red pepper for Calabrian chili paste. This Italian chili paste adds not only heat but also a tangy, smoky flavor.
3. Substitute Fish with Another Protein
You can easily swap the tilapia for other fish, such as cod or salmon. Alternatively, if you’re not a fan of fish, try using shrimp or even chicken breast for a different protein option.
4. Add Vegetables
To make the dish even more wholesome, add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or eggplant. Sauté them along with the garlic before adding the tomatoes to create a more veggie-packed pasta.
FAQs: Spicy Fish and Olive Spaghetti
1. Can I use regular spaghetti instead of whole-grain spaghetti?
Yes, you can use regular spaghetti if you prefer. Whole-grain spaghetti offers extra fiber and nutrition, but both types of pasta will work well in this recipe.
2. Can I use a different type of fish?
Absolutely! You can substitute tilapia with other white fish such as cod, halibut, or even trout. Each will bring a slightly different texture, but they will all work beautifully in this dish.
3. Is this recipe spicy?
Yes, this dish has a bit of heat thanks to the crushed red pepper. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount of red pepper or even leave it out entirely.
4. How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a little longer to reduce the liquid. You can also add a tablespoon of tomato paste to give the sauce a richer consistency.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
Conclusion: Spicy Fish and Olive Spaghetti
Spicy Fish and Olive Spaghetti is a perfect Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s both delicious and healthy. Packed with the goodness of whole-grain pasta, tilapia fish, kalamata olives, and a flavorful tomato sauce, it offers a wonderful balance of bold flavors, spice, and freshness. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner for friends and family, this dish will impress everyone at the table.
By following the simple steps in this recipe, you can create a meal that is not only full of flavor but also nutritious and satisfying. Feel free to explore the variations suggested here to make this dish uniquely yours. With its combination of spicy, savory, and fresh elements, Spicy Fish and Olive Spaghetti is a wonderful addition to your cooking repertoire.
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Spicy Fish and Olive Spaghetti Recipe: A Mediterranean Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Spicy Fish and Olive Spaghetti is a Mediterranean-style pasta dish that combines the rich, flaky texture of tilapia fish with the savory, briny flavor of kalamata olives. The base of the dish features a tomato sauce spiced up with garlic, crushed red pepper, and oregano, making each bite a burst of bold, satisfying flavors. The whole-grain spaghetti adds a nutritious twist, making this dish not only delicious but also a healthy option for your next dinner.
Ingredients
- 10 oz whole-grain spaghetti
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for tossing
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ¾ tsp kosher salt, plus more for pasta water
- Pinch crushed red pepper
- 1 (28 oz) can no-salt-added whole plum tomatoes, crushed by hand
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- 1 large tilapia fillet (about 8 oz), cut into ¾-inch pieces
- 10 kalamata olives, quartered
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water. Toss pasta with a little olive oil and set aside.
- Make the Sauce In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic, salt, and crushed red pepper. Sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Simmer Tomatoes Add crushed tomatoes, reserved pasta water, and oregano. Bring to a high simmer and cook until the sauce thickens but remains loose—about 12–15 minutes.
- Add Fish and Olives Stir in tilapia and olives. Cook until fish is opaque and flakes easily, about 3–4 minutes.
- Combine and Serve Add cooked spaghetti and parsley to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated. Divide among bowls and serve hot.
Notes
This zesty spaghetti dish combines the bold flavors of spicy fish and briny olives for a satisfying Mediterranean-inspired meal. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for the perfect dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: Moderate
Keywords: Mediterranean Fish Pasta, Spicy Fish Pasta, Olive Spaghetti, Tilapia Pasta
